239. Can You Explain Your Strategy in Two Minutes?

Sue Barber shares a practical framework for turning complex strategy, projects, and programs into a short, clear message senior leaders can actually absorb. The episode focuses on how to speak with more clarity, create visibility, and position yourself as someone ready for the next step.

Key topics

• Why strategy communication matters for visibility and leadership readiness.
• She breaks down how to explain a project or program in about two minutes without getting lost in details.
• The core idea is to start with the big picture first, then move into the specifics.
• Sue shares five questions to structure a strategic update:
  • Where are we going?
  • Why are we going there?
  • What matters most?
  • What are we doing differently?
  • What does success look like?
• Senior leaders do not need every detail, but they do need the right context in a concise format.
• The importance of explaining the business reason behind the work, not just the task itself.
• The value of naming what is unique, innovative, risky, or different about the approach.
• Success criteria should be clear, whether measured by revenue, cost, quality, capability, or strategic outcomes.
• The episode closes by framing succinct communication as a way to demonstrate strategic thinking and build credibility.

Connect with Susan M. Barber

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another leader who would benefit!

You can connect with Susan M. Barber for coaching, leadership development, speaking engagements, and visibility strategy work focused on helping leaders become more influential, trusted, and impactful inside organizations. Check out my books, The Visibility Factor and Your Journey to Visibility Workbook!

https://susanmbarber.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanbarbercoaching/